“They Don’t Even Have to Make the Playoffs” – Lionel Messi Winning the US Open Cup Would be Enough Success For Inter Miami, Says Popular Host

As Inter Miami braces for a momentous showdown in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup final against Houston Dynamo, all eyes are on one man: Lionel Messi. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has been the epicenter of attention since his arrival in Miami. However, Messi’s early exit in the game against Toronto FC has raised concerns about his fitness. Amidst the showbiz surrounding the match, a famous soccer panelist has shed light on Inter Miami’s success and Messi’s availability for the match.

While the spotlight undoubtedly shines on Messi, it’s essential to zoom out and assess what a victory in the US Open Cup would mean for Inter Miami CF. Let’s dive deeper into the story and know more about the views of experts ahead of the showdown match.

Inter Miami don’t need to make the playoffs to be successful, claims famous sports panelist

In an exclusive conversation with CBS Sports Golazo, popular host Nico Cantor shared his opinion on Inter Miami’s success and Lionel Messi’s presence for the match. When asked by another host Susannah Collins on the panel, “The big question, Messi’s playing, right?”

Cantor’s response was not just about Messi but about the club’s aspirations as a whole. “Given the nature of how everything has progressed, I would imagine that Messi’s gonna play, right?”

Collins, sharing the anticipation, added, “I would imagine. It’s a final! It’s a final. They [Inter Miami CF] could win their second trophy of the season, which is incredible!”

But here’s where the story gets intriguing. Nico Cantor didn’t just stop at the discussion of Messi’s availability, he dived into the broader implications of Miami’s victory in the US Open Cup. He said, “If they win their second trophy of the season, they don’t even have to make the playoffs. This is enough success.”

Cantor’s statement that Inter Miami doesn’t even need to make the playoffs to be successful is a bold one, but it is not unfounded. It shows that winning the competition would be a major achievement for Inter Miami, and it would be a sign that the club is moving in the right direction. However, Messi’s availability for the match will be integral for Miami and their chances of winning this cup.

READ MORE: Why Is the US Open Cup Named After Lamar Hunt?

The availability of Lionel Messi crucial for Inter Miami

Lionel Messi is arguably the greatest soccer player of all time, and his presence on the pitch would give Miami a significant advantage over Houston. In addition to his individual brilliance, Messi is also a great team player. He creates scoring opportunities for his teammates and is also a goal-scoring threat.

While Messi’s fitness remains a concern, the allure of silverware is a powerful motivator. Coach Martino and his team are leaving no stone unturned to ensure their star player is at his best when they step onto the pitch against Houston Dynamo.

As the countdown to the final begins, all eyes remain fixed on Lionel Messi and his potential to elevate Inter Miami to unprecedented heights. Success in this Cup final could not only justify Messi’s move to the MLS but also solidify Inter Miami’s place in the league’s history books, regardless of what comes next in the playoffs.

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